MODERN MARTYRS OF SCIENCE. 31 



have really no existence. The proper time for re- 

 search after microscopic objects is for one hour after 

 breakfast, when we are 111 the fittest state for 

 exertion/ 



Mr. Lewes, again, speaking to the same point, viz., 

 the eyes being injured by microscopic studies, says: 

 ' On evidence the most conclusive I deny the accu- 

 sation. My own eyes, unhappily made delicate by 

 over -study in imprudent youth, have been employed 

 for hours daily over the microscope without injury 

 or fatigue. By artificial light, indeed, I find it very 

 trying ; but by daylight, which on all accounts is 

 the best light for the work, it does not produce more 

 fatigue than any other steadfast employment of the 

 eye. Compared with looking at pictures, for in- 

 stance, the fatigue is as nothing/ 



In spite of the foregoing assertions, I feel it my 

 duty to caution the student against excess of labour. 

 Let him ride his hobby cautiously, instead of seeking 

 to enrol his name among the martyrs of science, of 

 whom the noble Geoffry St. Hilaire, M. Sauvigny, 

 and M. Strauss Diirckheim, are noted modern ex- 

 amples. Each member of this celebrated trio spent 

 the latter part of his existence in physical repose, 

 having become totally blind from intense study over 

 the microscope. But setting aside the evils of 

 excess, we must bear witness to the intense de- 

 light which this pursuit affords when followed with 

 moderation. 



